An extra $15.1 million to support the mental health of South Australians through the COVID-19 pandemic is being provided in this year’s Budget by the Marshall Liberal Government.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the Marshall Liberal Government is working hand-in-glove with the community to respond to the dual economic and health challenges presented by COVID-19.
“This year has presented unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, bushfires and drought, but we have responded by ensuring there is more support and resources available than ever before to support our community,” Minister Wade said.
“The Marshall Liberal Government has already boosted funding for mental health by almost $20 million since the 2018 election and spends 10 per cent more than the national average on mental health services.
“This extra funding further consolidates our support for the mental health and wellbeing of all South Australians.”
The broad range of services to be funded includes initiatives for children and young people impacted by social isolation, and the economic impacts of COVID-19, as well as counselling, and drug and alcohol services.
The funding boost will add to the $7.6 million announced earlier this year as part of South Australia’s immediate mental health and wellbeing response to support bushfire affected communities.
Funding of $5.3 million for the Statewide Wellbeing Strategy which encourages South Australians to Open Your World to sports, arts and physical activity during the pandemic is also being delivered.
Some other initiatives include:
- A NATION-FIRST Urgent Mental Health Care Centre which will divert consumers from emergency departments to more appropriate care
- AN upgrade of the Boylan Ward at WCH
- A NEW model of care for mental health patients at the RAH and a boost in the number of dedicated mental health beds available at the RAH
- LAUNCH of a Mental Health Plan, and its Towards Zero Suicide Initiative
- A TIER 7 Dementia Unit for Older Persons and an Eating Disorders Centre at the Marshall Liberal Government’s reactivated Repat
